What are the differences in different year models of the BMW M3?

First of all Im trying to choose between the ne model 645ci and the E46 M3. The 645ci definately has a nicer interior and the exterior is down to preference I suppose. I think the 645ci DOES look better but just by a bit.

But in terms of performance which is my real factor does the M3 win hands down?

OK - After that point I would like to know the difference between say a 2002 model which I can pick up for £12k or a 2004 model which will set me back around £15k. Has there been a facelift or such that makes the 2004 look better? Im sure there has because I've seen some 2004 models on road that look pretty good and other 2004's not so much. If I get an M3 what extras/options should I get to make it look the BEST!?

Finally, BMW claim a 0-60 in 5.4secs. In Parkers reviews it says 5.0secs. Ive read reviews sayin 4.8secs..... which one is correct?! I want the fastest one possible so would that be the SMG coupe? Is that 4.8secs?

Thank yooou!!

Comments

One Response to “What are the differences in different year models of the BMW M3?”
  1. M333 says:
    July 18, 2009 at 8:01 pm

    The M3 will beat the 645 hands down.
    The only "face lift" it ever got was in mid 2003, it received the LED tail lights and a longer trunk handle. In 2005 I believe it was, the competition package was offered as an option (called Club Sport in UK), which deleted cruise control and included many of the brake and suspension pieces from the CSL.
    The 0-60 time has never been listed over 5 seconds, except for the convertible. BMW claimed 4.8, and some testers got it as low as 4.5 – 4.7. Road and Track lists it at 4.7 and the 1/4 mile at 13.3 @ 107. I have personally gotten a 13.38 @ 104 in mine. I would imagine the SMG is a little faster, but only marginally. SMG is mostly designed for a big track like Nurburgring, where constant shifting time can add up, and accuracy is crucial.
    Other than the color, there aren’t any options to make it look any different from the rest. You can get a sunroof and you can get the small rear spoiler deleted. Factory 19" wheels were an option, but they aren’t that different from the factory 18s. The CSL and the competition package use different wheels- that look a lot better, they’re the style wheels I have on mine.

Leave An Answer

Tell us what you're thinking about this question...
and oh, if you want a pic to show with your comment, go get a gravatar!